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Forbidden love and fierce rivalry drive Jeff Hollister, a street-smart high school senior and gang leader of the Hurricanes, to the brink of disaster. Thinking he’s got the world in his back pocket, and the police at a safe distance, he and his scrappy gang of teenage delinquents come to discover they don’t always come out on top after all. A deadly vow by a member of the rival Tornadoes gang sets Jeff and his friends on a roller coaster of knife fray and gunplay, foot races and car chases, trust and betrayal, and murder. The death of a beloved friend serves a painful slap of reality to the Hurricanes that incites a burning desire for vengeance among the gang. With angry players going rogue, and weapons in the wrong hands, even the leaders are out of their depth. To make matters worse, Jeff is sidetracked by his budding love for Cindy, whose father just so happens to be the new police chief—the one person the Hurricane leader most wants to avoid. Yet she might also be the catalyst that can save Jeff from his own devices—if it doesn’t kill her first... -
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A young Irish sailor cast adrift in the sea. A mermaid princess and Irish luck save him from drowning. This adventurous tale owes its inspiration to stories Mike Mirabella heard as a little boy. His sizeable Italian clan swapped such stories during family dinners at the kitchen table.
"My grandpa and uncles would tell tales of fishing the waters off the coast of California and up through the inland passages of Alaska. I recall Grandpa Angelo telling of the scary times, when he was a cabin boy of 12 and was captured by pirates while working on the tall ships”.
And then there was the never-ending argument between my grandpa and Uncle Cam: “What was that strange creature they caught off the coast of Alaska; a mermaid or a merman?" I was (and still am) that wee lad in our story, sitting wide-eyed, half-believing, yet never tiring of hearing those wonder-filled stories told by those salty, old jacks."
Using the rhyming style of a pirate in an Irish pub, our sailor spins his yarn about seeing the slap of a mermaid's tail during a mighty storm. "On the Luck of an Irish Sailor" is a beautiful tale of adventure on the high seas. In a story that's been passed down for generations, author Mike Mirabella takes us on a magical experience deep beneath the ocean.
Could it have happened? Did it happen? Folklore - that's the feeling sparked by the illustrations by illustrator Amy O'Hanlon. She uses hues of blues, grays, and browns to depict the fierce storm accurately. On other pages, O'Hanlon uses beige and brown tones to create the illusion of an older picture book-like classic story that's been around for years. Enjoy the bonus song sheets and sing along with this ‘mostly’ true story of adventure and redemption, in "On the Luck of an Irish Sailor."
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History of this bestselling modern day Christmas classic…
Perhaps best said by the former national director of Angel Tree: "The Special Guest is much more than just a well-written family story... it sprinkles the principles of forgiveness with the wonder that is Christmas". A family dealing with a tragedy when an unexpected guest arrives for the holidays... A stranger who seems to have mysteriously stepped out of the past... A surprising chain of events that will teach the family about the miracle of forgiveness... A special gift left behind Christmas Day that causes the family to realize there are times, when needed the most, that help can come unexpectedly and unannounced... Sometimes from a perfect stranger... This is a story befitting the most wonderous time of year. A time when we lift our heads from the day-to-day grind of life to look at humanity with our spiritual eyes. When we rejoice to hear the bells chime a message of hope for the world. When we look to believe there really is more to this world than just what we can see and hear with our natural senses... Open THE SPECIAL GUEST and enter a world we all want to believe to be true. Someone once said, "To feel the brush of the supernatural is to experience, firsthand, the heavenly messengers at work around us." This beloved story will renew your faith in miracles. Even more important, it will renew your faith in your fellowman.
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Welcome to the wonderful world of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Modern-Day Nursery Rhymes. This collection includes all the books in four magical series: The Classics, The Essentials, The Rainbow’s End, and My Name Is. This collection offers a book for each day of the month with messages about permission and encouragement. The books are designed to help children see the world in entertaining and inspiring ways. This experiential collection will become tried and true books for current and future generations. -
The Crow's Nest is a tale of high adventure, as seen through the eyes of Will Anchor and his sister, Sara, ages 11 and 13, as they set out by canoe on a dangerous mission to find help for their ailing mother.
The year is 2049 and their home is in the drowned and abandoned city of New Orleans. Water levels, worldwide, have risen to unprecedented levels. Civilization, as we know it, has been brought to its knees, yet life struggles on, with promise for the future.
This story depicts an environmental disaster that some scientists predict may actually come to pass. This story is a timely, upbeat, and wholesome adventure. It is a down-to-earth odyssey that takes many twists and turns and is very exciting.
This audiobook has appeal for all ages.
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As the symphony floated above, Sora searched deep inside for a song. But nothing came. Melodies tickled across Sora’s toes, legs, and back as the little cricket searched in vain. Then a stern voice pierced the song, and the music stopped. “Someone’s not singing.” Discover one little cricket’s beautiful pursuit of inspiration. Readers are invited to stretch, balance, jump, and move along with the creatures in this delightful story of perseverance and celebrating your own unique voice. An enchanting sound-enhanced resource perfect for kindergarten and first-grade classrooms, dance teachers, and families at home. Sora Searches for a Song is ideal for ages 5-8. It features Sora (no pronouns), birds, fish, frogs, dragonflies, turtles, snakes and more. Delight your little one or class with this dance-and-move-along audio story, complete with nature and animal sounds. Track 2 includes Ballerina Konora’s suggestions for movement exploration. As kids move along with the characters, they experience head/tail connection, dynamic posture, vestibular action, balance, movement quality, partnering, and more. -
Grab a scarf and join the fun! Kids will love dancing along with Tammy, Ballerina Konora, and their new friends in this sweet adventure that’s perfect for preschool and kindergarten kids and classrooms. Readers are invited to stretch, spin, jump and more as they act out the journey to find Tammy. Kids can use a scarf as a backpack, a paddle, butterfly wings, a towel, and a pillow to enhance the fun and explore movements, dance fundamentals, and early-learning concepts. -
The Engine Woman's Light -
A heartwarming story of gratitude, and a reminder to enjoy the journey. Travel to a mysterious island alongside Frankie to wish on a magic feather. The path to the hidden feather will only be revealed through patience, wit, and joy. But time is running out, and wishes are only granted on one special day. Dance along with the creatures in this sound-enhanced audio story with a powerful message about what’s important in life. Frankie’s Wish is ideal for children 5-8. It features Frankie (no pronouns), Auntie Duke (she), a dinosaur, a gorilla, and an eagle. Major themes include gratitude, asking for help, friendship, self-affirmation, and believing in yourself. Track 2 includes Ballerina Konora’s suggestions for movement exploration. Kids are invited to re-create the characters’ actions and explore movement fundamentals by twirling, squatting, waddling, balancing, jumping, stretching, reaching, sway, and more. Self-affirmation and gratitude are also encouraged. Frankie’s Wish is the latest Dance-It-Out! imagination journey by Once Upon a Dance, winner of over 40 book awards including Mom’s Choice Gold, Kirkus Reviews Starred Review, and Outstanding Creator Awards Top 10 Author of 2022. -
Danika loves ballet. She translates each ordinary aspect of her life into a remarkable dance performance. Ballerina Konora (a professional ballerina) joins the fun with how-to instructions for kids who want to dance along with Danika, Penelope the cat, and their animal friends. -
Timeless books where all generations can find meaning. These many-layered stories have broad themes but focus on specific events and reality-based resilience topics. These books help kids navigate difficult situations. -
“THE WAY TEDDY” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Twelve of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a pet walking journey. This journey is full of surprises as the outing unfolds with the pet choosing the path. The narrator realizes that this is a fun and welcome way to spend time outside with the pet. “THE WAY TEDDY” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that spontaneous decisions can lead to fun adventures. The pet has its own ideas which allow for both freedom and adventure. Choices are a main theme that the author embraces in this light hearted story. There is playful approach to making decisions and choices in daily life that is also infused with positivity that will benefit the Child. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer an imaginary setting of pets personified. The story is illuminated by this fun and loving supporting cast of characters. There is discovery in the air as many breeds of dogs and cats interact harmoniously. “THE WAY TEDDY” models the healthy expression of needs for both the pet and the narrator. This is a example of allowing events to unfold naturally and see what positive results are realized. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. Wonderful discussions and conversations will be started with this book as a topic. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Way Teddy” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The author is taking the opportunity to utilize the relationship between pets and their owners as a model for interaction that is mutually beneficial. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a journey with pets where easy decisions lead to fun and spontaneous adventure. -
"The Catcher Dream" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Five of Kelly Anne Manuel's Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where self empowerment is modeled through an interaction between the narrator and a fictionalized character known as the Catcher Dream. This is a story where the narrator models strength and courage once an uncomfortable matter is identified through self assessment. "The Catcher Dream” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that they are individuals in charge of safeguarding their physical and emotional space. It is an example of how imperative it is to process the thoughts, feelings, and emotions that uncomfortable matters provoke. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will observe illustrations that are in alignment with the serious tone of the story. It is important that the art match the conflict presented and resolved by the narrator. The narrator shows the Child that once a boundary was encroached upon, speaking up in a firm manner provided a solution. Children learn how to handle conflict by observation. It is important for their literature to address a balanced yet firm approach to conflict resolution. The author intends this book to be a launch pad for discussions about personal space, respect, and boundaries. These are all areas that deserve to be explored frequently as the Child ages. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Catcher Dream" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that self empowerment is formed during these early years is embraced by the author. The Children who read this book will be rewarded with a valuable lesson that facing fears results in the positive trait of resilience. -
Life is lonely in Queen Victoria's London, especially for a talking vole. Chains may be the equal of any human detective, but there's one case he can't solve: where he came from and why he can speak. Luckily, he has the help of Eldridge, the retired investigator he lives with. Their latest job-a shipload of missing fish destined for experimentation-might provide some needed answers. But when Eldridge is kidnapped, Chains is left without sanctuary at a time he badly needs friends. Especially with profiteers, scientists, and pirates from London's mad scientific underbelly after his hide. The more clues Chains unearths, the more certain he is that finding Eldridge will also unlock the mystery of how Chains originally came to be, and might even offer him a place to truly belong. But someone he thought he could trust doesn't want that to happen. A talking vole may offer a significant breakthrough, but a silenced one is preferred. -
Does your child ever sit by themselves—alone and seemingly friendless? In I Used to Be Shy, meet Carla, our self-appointed social committee of one, who makes everyone at summer camp feel welcome. Carla spots a shy new boy who hides from others in his cabin, closing his curtain. Carla follows her heart and gathers a small group of fellow campers to coax him out to play games. With Carla’s encouragement, our new camper builds up his self-confidence, loses his fear, and learns to enjoy his new friends. The bonus song "Little Brown Pony" includes the lyrics and music notations as does "I Used to Be Shy." -
Amy O'Hanlon's excellent Sister Butterfly illustrations show Carla approaching a favorite corner of her garden where she feels safe and happy. Her vigilant brother knows that Carla can create beautiful fantasies as she twirls around and round to music only she can hear, engaged in quiet conversation with the small creatures such as butterflies and her favorite flowers. Mike Mirabella's children's book entitled Sister Butterfly, is a beautifully illustrated children's book based on a song from his 1998 CD entitled, Special People. Mike wrote Sister Butterfly song years ago for his daughter, Carla, when she was three years old. The theme of Sister Butterfly centers on Mike's abiding love for his daughter with Down syndrome and for self-discovery and the transformation of the hearts that surround her. Mike wrote in the song; "My sister is a butterfly who never learned to fly, ...”. Carla still wasn't walking or talking and Mike thought at the time, she would have little chance of accomplishing much of anything in her life. "How wrong I was; her life was a parade of accomplishments!” - Papa Mike. -
La Sinfonía de Ocho Historias Cortas de Daniel A. Novak es una colección alegre y llena de imaginación pa’ niños, ¡y ahora está disponible en inglés y en español! Estas historias únicas invitan a gente de todas las edades a un mundo donde la creatividad, el valor, la bondad y la curiosidad son los protagonistas. Perfecta pa’ familias bilingües, salones de clase o cualquiera que quiera sentir la magia de los cuentos en dos idiomas, esta colección en audio celebra el poder de la imaginación. Dale al play, relájate y déjate llevar. ¡Esta es una sinfonía que vas a querer escuchar una y otra vez! -
The Symphony of Eight Short Stories by Daniel A. Novak is a joyful, imaginative collection of children's tales and is now available in both English and Spanish! These unique stories invite listeners of all ages into a world with creativity, courage, kindness, and curiosity at the center. Perfect for bilingual families, classrooms, or anyone looking to experience the magic of storytelling across languages, this audio collection celebrates the power of imagination. So press play, sit back, and enjoy the ride. This is one symphony you’ll want to hear again and again! -
Join Princess Claudia on an unforgettable adventure as she learns the vital role clouds play in the world. Guided by her wise owl, Iris, and a bumbling wizard named Fumbledore, a nearly blind Claudia discovers that sometimes the things we take for granted are the most important of all. The Day the Clouds Went Away is a beautifully illustrated whimsical fairytale that shares the importance of clouds in our lives, even on rainy days. -
Set in one of the roughest neighborhoods in the city of St. Louis, Jayrin Foster grapples with the absence of his father, while Kamree Covington copes with her own struggles as her father serves time in prison. Aceson Denner, residing in a more affluent neighborhood, faces a different challenge – his father's emotional detachment. As these teenagers navigate the turbulent waters of adolescence, the void left by their fathers becomes an insurmountable hurdle. Jayrin's entanglement with a local drug dealer jeopardizes his academic pursuits, places his life at risk, and strains his longstanding friendship with Kamree. Kamree, in pursuit of an ideal and perfect world, confronts her own imperfections through self-reflection. Meanwhile, Aceson's explosive temper and social awkwardness lead to isolation in his school. Through the authentic voices of these compelling characters, the harsh reality of socio-economic challenges confronting today's youth unfolds. As they grapple with loneliness, poverty, drugs, and violence, and develop racial awareness, their separate journeys unexpectedly intertwine. The resulting tapestry weaves a narrative of tragedy, awakening, and the potential for redemption. -
In Jaxon and Kevin’s Black History Trip Downtown, the second book in this educational book series, Jaxon shares his magical adventure with his cousin Kevin. They venture into town to meet Black inventors and scientists who are responsible for many of the things we encounter every day. -
Ella’s thrilled about her new part but quickly realizes she's only filling in and won’t be performing on stage. This advanced Dance-It-Out! ballet story is ideal for dance students or kids aged 6-9 who have enjoyed other books in the series. Kids are invited to join Ashton and Ballerina Konora practicing steps such as pliés, tendus, rond de jambes, petit battements, and sautés. -
Dance along with Eka and Ballerina Konora in this interactive adventure story. Eka’s family creates a garden, but Eka worries animals may destroy all their hard work. When playful elephants visit, will Eka find a way to save the vegetables and flowers? -
Self and identity themed books that help children explore the duality of their internal and external nature. The importance of self-esteem and clear communication of the self are explored. These books give the child the opportunity to say: “This is who I am.” -
Destination stories that aid in imaginary and play discourse. The gap between reality and pretend is bridged. Each book begins with “The other day I went to visit a friend…” and transports readers to a different place where anything is possible. -
Positive self-talk books that kids can pick up anytime. Daily affirmations filled with positivity that encourage independence so children can face their fears and explore their world with the help of animals and the natural world. -
“THE NEED GNOME” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Eleven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to meet a mythical creature named the Need Gnome. The Child will engage immediately with the narrator who introduces this unique and mysterious main character. “THE NEED GNOME” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that this character represents a safe space where stating needs is not only accepted but encouraged. This is a story for all times of the day because its theme is a supportive one. There is a positive energy that the Child will feel as a result of the hopeful message that is delivered throughout the book. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer an imaginary setting with animals and gnomes personified. The story is illuminated by this fun and loving supporting cast of characters. There is discovery in the air as bunny rabbits, hedgehogs, and winged mythical friends grace the pages of the book. “THE NEED GNOME” models the healthy expression of inner needs to a support system. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. That positive communication is there for the Child to absorb throughout the story. Wonderful discussions and conversations will be started with this book as a topic. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Need Gnome” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that Children can openly express their needs in a way that is heard, received, and validated is embraced by the author. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a journey to an imaginary destination where the Need Gnome is always waiting and ready for a visit. -
“The Inclusive All” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Ten of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to a magical place. The narrator welcomes the Child on a voyage that is complete with the theme of inclusion throughout. It is a place where peace and harmony reign supreme. “The Inclusive All” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that they can actively engage with literature that is also entertaining. This is a story for all times of day because it is characterized by the freedom of joy and happiness. There is a positive energy that the Child will feel as a result of the hopeful message that is delivered throughout the book. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer a colorful view of beautiful and ethereal scenery. There are so many birds to find that represent the peace of this magical place. Waterfalls, trees, and plants will capture and hold the Child’s attention. “The Inclusive All” allows the Child to see cooperation in the way the animals interact. There is discovery in the air as butterflies, peacocks, and even fish accompany the Child on this unique voyage. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. Positive communication is modeled and there for the Child to absorb throughout the story. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Inclusive All” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that we can learn from observing inclusive environments is a message the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with an imaginary destination that is always ready to welcome their arrival. -
“The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Four of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Rainbow’s End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to a town where there is a fantastical train. This train has amazing boxcars for the Child to visit in this book. This book is designed to address all kinds of emotions with the help of some furry friends. “The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow’s end and see what transportation adventures await. The Child will experience a train where unique feelings are represented in each boxcar. The freedom to experience and then process emotions is a springboard for many discussions for Children of any age. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations lead the way to an adventure where furry friends represent the feeling expressed in the boxcar. The human likeness of the animals are utilized to capture and keep the Child’s attention. The Child’s imagination will be ignited with possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscles while also receiving information about the natural cycles of emotions. These natural cycles are excellent models for life experiences and that is embraced by the author. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that feelings, thoughts, and emotions are alive and well is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be able to relate with, connect to, and enjoy the unique boxcars of this fantastical train. -
“The Tinker Sleep” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Eight of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey into space when the narrator is unable to sleep during the night. An interesting character known as the Tinker Sleep is introduced towards the end of the book and has been created to personify slumber. “The Tinker Sleep” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that if their sleep is interrupted, writing on paper can be helpful. They can use a journal, diary, notebook or pad as a temporary tool to find their way back to sleep. This is a story for all times of the day but really does fit in nicely with a sleep time routine. “The Tinker Sleep” addresses the important issue of a good night’s sleep. The idea that paper and pencil can be helpful once awoken from sleep is a theme the author embraces. The Child will enjoy the rhythm of the words and playful ideas of outer space. The message that great ideas can be found in times of quiet is also supported by the story. It is in Early Childhood that sleep patterns, night time rituals and habits are formed. “The Tinker Sleep” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that Children can learn to self soothe with a hobby such as writing is such an important message. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a fun adventure into not only a dream world but a literary one. -
"The Loon Ball" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Ten of Kelly Anne Manuel's Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is cordially invited to attend the most amazing, colorful, and inclusive event known as the Loon Ball. The Loon Ball is a magical adventure into a world where anything that they can dream of is possible. "The Loon Ball" engages with the Child immediately with an invitation to an imaginary fantastical event. The narrator guides the Child through all the elements that the Loon Ball encompasses. These elements are colorful, joyful, and playful ideas that come to life for the Child to experience. There is an exciting energy that the story brings right to the Child, wherever they are in their own life journey. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The story is supported with lovely animals that are both real and imaginary. The combination of both is important to the development of the magical theme woven throughout. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The depth of the message is measured by where the Child is on their own growth journey so it is always age appropriate. The author hopes it will serve as a launch pad for discussions about invitations, events, and relying on oneself for a barometer of inclusiveness. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Loon Ball" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that there are unlimited ways to celebrate events is meant to inspire curiosity. Children's Literature is a wonderful place to allow imagination to fl y to untethered heights. The Child who reads this book will be entertained and encouraged to begin planning the fantastical elements that they would include in their own Loon Ball. -
"The Skate Free" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Two of Kelly Anne Manuel's Rainbow's End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to experience an everyday item in a new and exciting way. The item is the wheel and it is shown in a light that will encourage the Child to play creatively with anything that has them attached. This book offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow's end and see what fantastical adventures await. In "The Skate Free" the Child will experience a place where wheels are celebrated and enjoyed for the wonderful invention that they are. The message that playing with wheels leads to discovery and freedom is woven into this playful story. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations lead the way to an adventure where items with wheels are shared for inspiration. The idea that a Skate Free is when anything with wheels finds itself outdoors is meant to encourage time and play in Nature. The Child's imagination will be ignited with possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle while visually stimulated with vehicles, toys, and even a hand truck. Creating a new event for wheeled items is a way to engage the Child's curiosity as well as stimulate conversation. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Skate Free" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that every wheel is an opportunity for fun, function, and fascination is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with motivation to discover everything the wheel has to offer, especially when it finds itself out a door.
